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Trains from Waterloo (Merseyside) to Preston (Lancs)

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Avanti West Coast
East Midlands Railway

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  1. Home
  2. Train times
  3. Waterloo (Merseyside) to Preston (Lancs)

Trains to Preston (Lancs) from Waterloo (Merseyside)

First train

05:05

Last train

22:48

Departure stationWaterloo (Merseyside)
Arrival stationPreston (Lancs)
Journey time

From 1h 22m

Distance

23 miles (38 km)

Frequency

63 trains per day

Changes

2 changes

Train operators

Avanti West Coast, East Midlands Railway, Merseyrail, TransPennine Express

Travelling from Waterloo (Merseyside) to Preston (Lancs) by train

If you're planning to travel from Waterloo (Merseyside) to Preston (Lancs), we're here to help!

On average, the train journey from Waterloo (Merseyside) to Preston (Lancs) takes around 2 hours 39 minutes. There are normally 63 trains per day travelling from Waterloo (Merseyside) to Preston (Lancs).

You'll have to make 2 changes on your journey to Preston (Lancs), as there are no direct trains.

Avanti West Coast, East Midlands Railway, TransPennine Express and Merseyrail trains run on this route.

Save money on your train tickets by booking in advance.

Use our Journey Planner to compare ticket prices and find the cheapest fares.

What do people frequently ask about the train journey from Waterloo (Merseyside) to Preston (Lancs)?

Want to know more about your journey from Waterloo (Merseyside) to Preston (Lancs)? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.

How do you get to Preston (Lancs) from Waterloo (Merseyside)?

To travel to Preston (Lancs) from Waterloo (Merseyside), you can take the train - on average, the journey takes around 2 hours and 39 minutes, though the fastest trains can take 1 hour and 22 minutes. Use our Journey Planner to get more information.

How long is the train ride from Waterloo (Merseyside) to Preston (Lancs)?

Trains from Waterloo (Merseyside) to Preston (Lancs) take an average of 2 hours and 39 minutes, although on the fastest services it can take just 1 hour and 22 minutes. You'll usually find 63 trains per day on this route, so use our Journey Planner to check specific dates as times may vary.

What is the quickest journey time between Waterloo (Merseyside) and Preston (Lancs) by train?

The quickest journey time between Waterloo (Merseyside) and Preston (Lancs) by train is 1 hour and 22 minutes.

Are there direct trains from Waterloo (Merseyside) to Preston (Lancs)?

No, there are no direct trains running from Waterloo (Merseyside) to Preston (Lancs), you’ll usually need to make at least 2 changes during the journey.

How do I find cheap train tickets from Waterloo (Merseyside) to Preston (Lancs)?

As most UK train companies increase their prices as the departure date approaches, our Trainline team of experts have put together these tips to help you find the cheapest tickets.

1. Sign up to Ticket Alert

If you're planning a trip more than 12 weeks ahead, sign up to our Ticket Alert to get notified when Advance tickets are released for your travel date.

2. Use a Railcard

National Railcards offer a 1/3 off eligible train tickets in the UK and can be a great investment if you travel throughout the year. Buy one with us and you'll be able to store it digitally in our app, so you'll always have it on your travels.

3. Book split tickets

Our handy feature SplitSave will 'split' your train journey into multiple tickets, which can be much cheaper than buying a single ticket. Find out more about split tickets.

4. Travel Off-Peak

If you can be flexible with your travel times, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets are usually cheaper in the UK. Generally, Off-Peak times are any time at weekends and outside of Monday to Friday morning and evening rush hours.

5. Consider a Season Ticket

Best for commuters, if you catch a train on the same route more than 3 times per week, you could save money with a Season Ticket. With annual, monthly, weekly and flexi options available, find out if a Season Ticket for Waterloo (Merseyside) to Preston (Lancs) is right for you.

For more money-saving tips on UK and European train travel, read our cheap train tickets guide.

§Advance adult single fare. Excludes booking fee. Prices seen by Trainline customers in the last 30 days. Availability limited.
† Average savings on advance fares booked at least one week before day of travel vs Anytime fares purchased on day of travel. Subject to availability. Excludes coach.

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